Jesus did not want to become a miracle sideshow. His purpose in healing the leper was to love and bless the leper, not to attract more folks looking to see something amazing. So as the crowds grew because they heard of his great and powerful deeds, Jesus withdrew. However, Jesus' withdrawal wasn't to hide and stay away from people. It was a time to be alone with God and renew his sense of mission and purpose. Jesus knew it was crucial to not let the crowd determine the direction of his ministry. He was on earth to do the work of God. That work was centered in making hope, freedom, healing, life, and salvation possible for all of us. That was going to be done in a lasting way only if his Father set the agenda. Jesus withdrew to be alone with God and to have God, not the crowds and not his own ego, remain in control of his ministry! This is a powerful example for all of us, especially church and ministry leaders!